Just like people, pets’ behaviors are shaped by their genetics, life experiences, and their current environment. Animals in shelters often don’t understand why they’re there, what will happen next, or how long they’ll be there. This can be especially stressful for adult and anxious animals.
We recognize the importance of emotional health and are committed to reducing stress in the shelter. Anderson Humane has been a leader in shelter animal behavior, providing play groups, one-on-one interactions, and positive reinforcement training programs to keep animals emotionally healthy. Guidelines for our classes can be viewed here.
Training Classes Offered
Testimonials:
“The instructor is FANTASTIC! She was prepared for anything and everything! She was also super helpful, willing to answer any and all questions and offered individualized suggestions/advice which was greatly appreciated.” -Regina & Scout
“I was very happy with every single part of this class! Maverick and I learned so much!” –Tyler & Maverick
Puppy Preschool
| Age: 2 to 7 months |
| Cost: $175.00 for 6 week series |
| Class Size: 4-8 dogs |
| Location: Do It Best Hardware |
This course helps pups learn how to be dogs and build social skills by playing alongside other puppies their age. Puppies will be able to explore different textures, scents, and sounds through agility equipment to help foster a well-socialized pup!
Testimonials:
“The curriculum was great! It touched on everything I needed and wanted.” -Sally & Willow
“We’ve had several dogs and participated in various classes, this was by far the best!” –Mike, Alison & Obi
Doggie Middle School
| Age: 6 months and up |
| Cost: $175.00 for 6 week series |
| Max Class Size: 6 dogs |
| Location: Do It Best Hardware |
This course teaches you and your dog the common basic manners cues you are looking for your dog to know! In addition, we will help minimize undesirable behaviors such as jumping, pulling, and mouthing, by rewarding more desirable behaviors.
Testimonials:
“This class transformed our relationship with our Murphy!” -Candice, Gary & Murphy
“Very satisfied with the curriculum and the emphasis on recall and loose leash walking!” –Lauren, Cal & Maverick
Doggie High School
| Age: 6 months and up |
| Cost: $175.00 for 6 week series |
| Max Class Size: 6 dogs |
| Location: Do It Best Hardware |
Testimonials:
“I was very happy to see that Anderson Humane offered this class. I would like to train Bunny to be a therapy dog and this was the first step towards that.” -Mary & Bunny
Canine Good Citizen Prep Class
| Age: 6 months and up |
| Cost: $175.00 for 6 week series |
| Max Class Size: 6 dogs |
| Location: Do It Best Hardware |
Testimonials:
“My dog and I have gone on 5 Paws in the Park walks. They have done wonders for her! Ellie is no longer afraid of being around other dogs or experiencing new places. The instructor is great guiding the walks and providing support!”
-Adrienne & Ellie
“The activities my dog and I did together at Paws in the Park made me realize how confident my dog was with trying new things! Because of this, I enrolled my dog into agility training as she is thriving there! I would never have taken that step if it hadn’t been for Paws in the Park and Deb!”
-Anne & Roery
Paws in the Park
| Age: All Ages |
| Cost: $25.00 for 1 hour class |
| Class Size: 12 dogs |
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Join us for Paws in the Park! This one-time group walk is designed to create a structured environment to exercise and socialize your dog, as well as get training. Your pup will build their confidence and their relationship with you, while releasing energy at the same time! We will walk approximately one mile. One dog per handler, please!
Puppy Playground
| Age: 2 to 7 months |
| Cost: $15.00 per 30 min. class |
| Class Size: 8 dogs |
| Location: Do It Best Hardware |
Join Puppy Playground for your puppy’s vital socialization phase! These structured play sessions boost social skills, resilience, problem-solving, motor skills, and more. Puppies explore agility equipment, textures, sounds, enrichment, and handling exercises. Attend as many sessions as you’d like until reaching the age limit.
Mini Recall Class
| Age: 6 months and up |
| Cost: $40.00 for two 30-min. class sessions |
| Max Class Size: 4 dogs |
| Location: Do It Best Hardware |
This class was designed to help give you the knowledge and tools you need to teach your dog a good, solid recall! Recall or “come” is one of the most important skills you can teach your dog as it can be life-saving. Anderson Humane’s trainers will help you get your dog flying back to you on cue!
Doggie Outdoor Dining
| Age: 6 months and up |
| Cost: $65.00 for 1.5 hour class |
| Max Class Size: 8 dogs |
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Come spend an afternoon with us! Do you want to know how you can teach your dog to settle next to you in a public space? Enjoy a drink with us while we teach you! Our “Dining Outdoors” class will introduce you to engagement, relaxation, and advocacy techniques in order to have an enjoyable time outside with your dog.
Training Class Frequently Asked Questions
Q: I didn't adopt from Anderson, can I still sign up for classes?
A: Yes! Our classes are open to all puppies and dogs that are suitable for group classes.
Q: What training methodology does Anderson use in training classes?
A: Anderson Humane trainers adhere to LIMA (least intrusive, minimally aversive) based training and behavior modification. Anderson Humane does not condone the use of punishment in lieu of other, more effective and humane strategies. Equipment such as choke, shock, prong collars or any other techniques that utilize fear will not be allowed in class. Additionally, all training staff members are Fear Free® certified.
Q: Do I have to use treats as reinforcements?
A: We highly recommend using treats as a reward as they are a primary reinforcer. We recommend bringing multiple varieties of pea-sized treats in order to reward your dog in class.
Q: How many family members can come to class?
A: Anderson allows up to 3 people in class with their dog.
Q: Can I bring my children to class with me?
A: Yes! We encourage children to be active participants in training with their dog. If your child will not be actively training in class with you, we ask you to leave them home.
Q: Can my dog meet other dogs in class?
A: Puppies will be able to play with other puppies in Puppy Preschool and in Puppy Parties. All other classes we ask you do not introduce your dog to other dogs.
Q: What happens if I miss a class date?
A: We understand that things come up and you might miss a class, fret not! After every class we will send out a homework email with what we covered so you can practice at home. Additionally, trainers will be available 30 minutes prior and post class time to answer any questions.
Q: What happens if i'm signed up for an outdoor class and the weather is bad?
We do not offer Paws in the Park or Outdoor Doggie Dining when there is extreme weather. Please monitor your email for updates.
By signing up for our classes you agree that: Participant agrees to hold harmless Anderson Humane from any and all claims of injury, loss, cost, expenses, or damage caused by the actions of Participant’s dog during the course of training. I hereby accept and assume, without reservation, all risks associated with my participation in the training program, including, but not limited to: the risks of any and all injuries to myself and my dog, the risks that my dog may cause injury to other persons and/or dogs involved; and the risks that saliva, water, food, and/or other debris may be present in the training area.
What Is Fear-Free?
Anderson Humane is creating a fear-free environment. We are committed to providing the best possible experience for all animals in our care; we keep every animal’s physical and emotional well-being at the forefront of all we do. The practice of fear-free methods helps reduce fear, anxiety, and stress in the animals we care for at all of our locations.
Funding for this website provided by Forefront - the Mission Sustainability Initiative.
Anderson Humane is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit recognized by the IRS. FE #: 36-6164626 Copyright © 2025 by Anderson Humane.
Anderson Humane
1000 S. La Fox Street
South Elgin, IL 60177
(847) 697-2880
OR
Text (224) 346-9747